This copper engraving is from a remarkable series of publications, illustrating voyages of discovery and travels of exploration to various parts of the world. The project was begun by Theodore de Bry of Frankfurt, in 1590 and was to continue for another 54 years. They became known collectively as the Grands Voyages (to America and the West Indies) and the Petits Voyages (to the Orient and the East Indies). De Bry died after the first six parts of the Grands Voyages were completed. The project was completed initially by his widow and two sons, Johann Theodore de Bry and Johann Israel de Bry, then by his son-in-law, Matthaus Merian in 1644.

A. Americae Pars Quarta... (8.2 x 11.7"). This is the title page to the fourth part of the Grand Voyages focused on the Americas with Latin text. Finely engraved, the plate features Columbus' three ships at bottom along with depictions of the natives he encountered in the West Indies. Condition: A dark impression with faint foxing and a few binding holes confined to the left blank margin. (B+)

B. Americae Pars Quinta..., published 1595 (8.4 x 11.8"). Title page to the fifth part of the Grand Voyages also with Latin text. A busy scene depicts both natives and Europeans with a cross being erected by several members of Columbus' crew at top. Condition: Moderate soiling along the sheet edges with a few worm tracks along the right border. (B)

C. [Frontispiece] (7.3 x 9.6"). A lovely frontispiece to the fourth part featuring seven coats of arms including Rudolf II, the Holy Roman Emperor, at center. Includes allegorical representations along the borders symbolizing peace, justice, truth, wisdom, victory and strength. Condition: A crisp impression with minor foxing. (B+)

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See description above.